setting powder brush

I have been hearing so much about “setting powders” lately. I know that Laura Mercier has one of the best ones out there, but sometimes I like to stray away from the best sellers and look at the up and coming products. Plus, I have a current obsession with Kat Von D products. I love the Tattoo Liner and the Everlasting Liquid Lipstick (review coming soon!). I know I’m late jumping on this bandwagon but it’s better late then never right?

First I needed to figure out exactly what I am supposed to use setting powder for. Is it the same as using powder foundation after my liquid foundation? Do I put it on after both of those? Do I need to “bake” with it? There are so many questions! Lucky for you, I did hours of research for you. Here’s what I found out:

Use setting powder after your liquid foundation to matte and “set” your face. It’s different from powder foundation in that it’s lighter and will typically not give you a cake-y finish.

Baking: Putting a crap load of translucent powder under your eyes (typically) and letting it sit there for awhile. The heat from your face will set your foundation and concealer giving you a flawless finish. Some people use it where they contour as well. I am not that savvy just yet.

Personally, baking is too much for me. My friend does it for big events and swears by it. I guess you can say that I am too lazy and don’t want to deal with the excessive amount of powder after.

So how is this setting powder? I am still getting used to it but you can kind of see it in the photo with my hand – it’s powdery. However, it’s a finely milled silky powder. I used CoverFx’s Matte Setting Powder and within an hour my nose was super shiny. The Kat Von D one gives me a nice glow. Seems to have the tiniest bit of shimmer in it but not much. I do have to do one touch up in the middle of the day with a pressed powder (review coming soon!), but it’s not bad. If you are looking for a setting powder, this is definitely a great one to try. It’s lightweight AND the Kat Von D Lock-It Setting Brush so soft! I am a sucker for brushes that go with the product.

Final thoughts: I still love Kat Von D’s products and definitely think you should try it out!!! Stay tuned for more Kat Von D product reviews. I am obsessed right now – so that’s what you’re going to get!